P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren wanted to avoid ‘stressful’ situation with Suzuka strategy
McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella explained that the team aimed to avoid a stressful situation with their Japanese Grand Prix strategy, leading them to swap drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. They made the change to prevent losing time to George Russell, who was on a one-stop strategy. Norris followed Piastri for a few laps before being instructed to let his teammate pass, ensuring they could secure their podium position without being threatened by Mercedes or Ferrari. This approach differed from their experience in Monza, where Norris lost time behind Piastri and couldn’t pass Alex Albon due to the Williams’ advantage on straight lines. Stella acknowledged the stress caused by these instances and expressed their intention to avoid such situations in the future. They hoped for overtaking to occur naturally on track but made the decision to swap drivers after just one lap. Stella believed their approach was as fair as possible.
Source: RacingNews 365
